Persistent Abdominal Cramps After C-Section: Causes & Relief

Question
I had a c-section in November of 2003 and it is now April 2004.  
I have sharp cramps in my stomach ever since then.  All kinds of
cramps are a million times worse now; menstrual, gas, any kind
of cramp I didn't have before I have now.  And every kind I DID
have are so much worse.  Do you know why or what I can do
about it?

Answer
Hi Robin:  I'm afraid I can't offer a whole lot of insight here -- this is outside my "area of expertise."  BUT, for what it's worth, I will say that since MY first abdominal surgery (I had one Oct. '01 and another, Sept. '03), I have found gas to be excruciating and something to be avoided at all costs.  Myself, I use Gas-X and Beano -- I've read that charcoal caps can help alot with intestinal gas but unfortunately it can also interfere with absorption of certain medications so I've never tried that.

My first surgery included a hyst (Dec. '00) so I have no personal experience with menstrual cramps following laparotomy.

You may want to bring this up to your doc, OR you can try asking Dr. Rappaport here at Allexperts (he's an ob/gyn).

Sorry I couldn't be of more help to you.

Warm regards,
Cat